• Share

PRINT

For those who regularly read this column, you know that our founder, Stuart Rosenthal, recently retired. As the new publisher, I’d like to introduce myself and share my vision for the future of the Beacon.

I joined this team more than 20 years ago, working closely with Stuart and his wife, Judy, our president, in every facet of the business. It has been an honor to serve alongside them.

Now my mission is to maintain the cultural foundation and integrity that have made this paper the most respected resource for seniors in the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas.

As an Army veteran, “Duty, Honor, Country” was ingrained in me through countless pushups and years of service. I feel a profound sense of duty to you, our readers, and I intend to honor the Rosenthals by building upon the legacy they created.

When Stuart first approached me about his desire to step back from the Beacon to “recreate himself” as a pianist, I was thrilled. I knew he always loved composing, and seeing him pursue this passion reminds us all that it is never too late for a new chapter. I’m confident his new venture, StuartsMelodies.com, will be a hit.

After the initial excitement, reality set in: With the founder gone, what would happen to our team and our readers? I jumped at the opportunity to buy the Beacon because our story isn’t finished.

We are reinventing ourselves, and I have big ideas. Those who know me know I don’t shy away from hard work — and I plan to have fun doing it.

My first order of business was forming a partnership with Steve Gurney, our new associate publisher and the founder of ProAging.com.

If you aren’t familiar with Steve’s work, I highly recommend exploring his online community and publications, which offer a comprehensive look at senior-related issues. His knowledge and expertise will be a massive asset as we grow and evolve.

This merger significantly enhances our ability to share vital information with seniors, families and caregivers.

In an increasingly polarized world, we believe we are truly “Stronger Together.” Wouldn’t it be refreshing if more people felt this way?

The last few months have been a whirlwind, but another trait Uncle Sam indoctrinated in me was the ability to multitask and adapt. I thrive in complex environments and am always driving forward. Together with Steve Gurney, I look forward to providing even more resources, information and fun for our community of loyal readers.

I’ll admit, being a Baby Boomer still freaks me out. It’s only when I look in the mirror that I realize I’m 64. How did I get here so fast?

But being a Boomer doesn’t mean slowing down. Between hitting the gym (I’ve been lifting for 50 years), skiing and tackling my own yard work, I’m staying “youngish.” To quote the poet Dylan Thomas, I will not go gentle into that good night!

Please join me in wishing Stuart and Judy success and fulfillment on their new journey. Leading such a well-respected publication for 37 years is a monumental achievement.

I am proud to have been part of their story, and I hope to make them — and you — proud of what we create next. I know how loyal you have been to the Beacon, and I look forward to earning that same trust and loyalty in the years to come.

As I begin my own new chapter as publisher, I want to ensure the Beacon continues to serve your specific needs. I invite you to share your thoughts on what topics you would like to see covered or how we can better support you in the coming months.

Please feel free to reach out to our team via our website, follow our latest updates on the Beacon Facebook page or send us a Letter to the Editor (see below).

Your voice is the heart of this publication, and I look forward to hearing from you as we move forward — together.